Nikolaiviertel: Berlin's Medieval Heart

Discover Berlin's origins in the Nikolaiviertel, a charming reconstructed medieval quarter with historic buildings, traditional restaurants, and a unique glimpse into the city's past.

4.6

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
Germany
Berlin
Nikolaiviertel

Step back in time in the Nikolaiviertel, Berlin's oldest residential area, a charming enclave of cobblestone streets and reconstructed medieval buildings. Though largely rebuilt after WWII, this compact district offers a glimpse into Berlin's origins, dating back to the 13th century. Explore the iconic Nikolaikirche, the city's oldest church, and wander past historic houses like the Knoblauchhaus and the Ephraim-Palais, each telling a story of Berlin's rich past. With its traditional restaurants, cozy cafes, and unique shops, the Nikolaiviertel provides a delightful escape from the modern metropolis, offering a taste of old-world Berlin amidst the bustling city center. It's a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere and imagine life in medieval Berlin, making it a must-see for history buffs and anyone seeking a unique Berlin experience.

A brief summary to Nikolaiviertel

Rathausstraße 21, Berlin, Mitte, 10178, DE
Visit website

Local tips

Visit the Nikolaikirche museum to delve into the history of the area and see artifacts from Berlin's early days.
Explore the Knoblauchhaus for an authentic glimpse into the life of a wealthy 19th-century Berlin family.
Enjoy traditional Berlin cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the quarter, such as Zum Nußbaum.
Attend an organ concert at the Nikolaikirche for a unique cultural experience.
Visit during the Nikolai Festival (Christmas Market) for a festive and traditional Berlin experience.

Getting There

Public Transport

The Nikolaiviertel is easily accessible by public transport. From Alexanderplatz, take the U5 subway line one stop to U Rotes Rathaus. Alternatively, it's a pleasant 10-minute walk from Alexanderplatz. Several bus lines also stop nearby, including the 100, 200, 248, and N2 (night bus) at the Nikolaiviertel or Rotes Rathaus stops. A single ticket for zones AB costs €3.80, while a short trip ticket (Kurzstrecke), valid for three stops, costs €2.60.
Walking

From Alexanderplatz, walk southwest along Spandauer Straße. You'll see the Rotes Rathaus (Red City Hall) on your right. Continue along Spandauer Straße, and the Nikolaiviertel will be on your right, just past the Rathaus. The walk is approximately 10 minutes and offers views of some of Berlin's key landmarks.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from Alexanderplatz to the Nikolaiviertel is a short ride, typically costing between €8 and €12, depending on traffic. The journey usually takes around 5-10 minutes. Be sure to specify 'Nikolaiviertel' as your destination.
Driving

While driving is possible, parking in the immediate vicinity of the Nikolaiviertel is limited and can be expensive. Consider parking at Q-Park am Alexanderplatz (Spandauer Straße 41, 10178 Berlin), an underground parking garage a few minutes' walk away. Hourly rates typically range from €3-4, with daily rates around €20-25. Be aware that Berlin's city center requires a green environmental badge (Umweltplakette) for vehicles.

Discover more about Nikolaiviertel

The Nikolaiviertel, or St. Nicholas Quarter, is a small but captivating neighborhood nestled in the heart of Berlin, representing the city's historical beginnings. This area, considered the oldest residential part of Berlin, offers visitors a unique journey back in time, contrasting sharply with the surrounding modern cityscape. Founded around 1200, the Nikolaiviertel's history is deeply intertwined with the construction of the Nikolaikirche (St. Nicholas Church), Berlin's oldest church. The church served as the nucleus around which the settlements of Berlin and Cölln grew, eventually merging to form the city we know today. Throughout the Middle Ages, the area thrived as a trading hub, attracting merchants and craftsmen who shaped its character. However, the ravages of World War II left the Nikolaiviertel in ruins. What remained was largely destroyed in 1944, leaving a desolate landscape in its wake. For decades, the area remained a neglected part of East Berlin, a stark reminder of the war's devastation. In the 1980s, in anticipation of Berlin's 750th anniversary in 1987, the East German government embarked on an ambitious project to reconstruct the Nikolaiviertel. Led by architect Günter Stahn, the reconstruction aimed to recreate the atmosphere of old Berlin, albeit with a touch of socialist architectural sensibilities. While some criticized the project as a somewhat artificial recreation, dubbed "Honecker's Disneyland," it nonetheless succeeded in creating a charming and historically evocative district. The Nikolaiviertel is characterized by its narrow, winding cobblestone streets, lined with replicas of historic buildings. Although few structures stand on their original sites, the overall effect is a convincing illusion of a bygone era. The area is pedestrianized, making it a pleasant place to stroll and explore. The heart of the Nikolaiviertel is, of course, the Nikolaikirche. The church, originally built in the 13th century, has undergone numerous transformations over the centuries. Severely damaged during WWII, it was rebuilt in 1987 and now houses a museum dedicated to the history of the church and the Nikolaiviertel itself. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the area's past, from its medieval origins to its reconstruction in the 20th century. Organ concerts are held regularly. Other notable buildings in the Nikolaiviertel include: * **Knoblauchhaus:** This Baroque house, built in the 18th century, miraculously survived the war largely unscathed. It now serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into the life of a wealthy Berlin family during the Biedermeier period. * **Ephraim-Palais:** A masterpiece of 18th-century Rococo architecture, the Ephraim-Palais was originally built for Veitel Ephraim, a court jeweler. The palace was demolished in 1936 but rebuilt in the 1980s and now hosts exhibitions on Berlin's history and culture. * **Gerichtslaube:** A replica of Berlin's medieval courthouse. The original was demolished in 1871, and this copy was erected during the Nikolaiviertel's reconstruction. * **Zum Nußbaum:** This historic inn, known as Berlin's oldest restaurant, was rebuilt in the Nikolaiviertel after being destroyed during the war. It offers traditional German cuisine in a cozy setting. Beyond its historical attractions, the Nikolaiviertel is also a vibrant center for dining and entertainment. The area boasts a high concentration of restaurants, cafes, and pubs, many serving traditional Berlin fare. Visitors can enjoy a hearty meal, sample local beers, or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere. The Nikolaiviertel also hosts various events throughout the year, including the Nikolai Festival, a popular Christmas market that draws crowds from all over Berlin. The festival features traditional crafts, food stalls, and festive entertainment. While the Nikolaiviertel may not be a completely authentic reconstruction of old Berlin, it offers a valuable glimpse into the city's past. Its charming streets, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It's a place where visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of modern Berlin and experience the charm of a bygone era. The Nikolaiviertel stands as a testament to Berlin's resilience and its commitment to preserving its rich history, making it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city.

Explore the architectural beauty of Fischerinsel 3 in Berlin, a captivating blend of history and modernity in the heart of the city.

Experience Berlin like never before with guided bike tours that unveil the city's history, culture, and stunning sights in an engaging and eco-friendly way.

Essential places to dine

Mutter Hoppe

0.1 km

Experience authentic German cuisine at Mutter Hoppe - a culinary gem nestled in Berlin's vibrant Mitte district.

Alt-Berliner Gasthaus Julchen Hoppe

0.2 km

Savor traditional German dishes in the charming ambiance of Alt-Berliner Gasthaus Julchen Hoppe's historic setting.

Restaurant Balthazar 2

0.2 km

Experience fine dining at Restaurant Balthazar in Berlin - where modern cuisine meets exquisite flavors along the Spreeufer.

Dreh-Restaurant Sphere im Berliner Fernsehturm

0.4 km

Dine at Berlin's iconic Fernsehturm while enjoying panoramic views and exquisite German cuisine in a modern European setting.

Dreh-Restaurant Sphere im Berliner Fernsehturm

Zur letzten Instanz

0.5 km

Experience authentic German cuisine at Zur letzten Instanz - Berlin's oldest restaurant with a rich history and delightful beer garden.

Restaurant FOREIGN AFFAIRS

0.7 km

Discover authentic Austrian cuisine in Berlin's Mitte district at Restaurant FOREIGN AFFAIRS – where tradition meets taste.

Restaurant Dae Mon

0.8 km

Discover an exquisite fusion of modern European cuisine at Restaurant Dae Mon in Berlin's vibrant Mitte district.

BLESS Restaurant

0.9 km

Experience the vibrant fusion of Vietnamese and Asian cuisine at BLESS Restaurant in Berlin's Mitte district.

Charlotte & Fritz

1.1 km

Experience the pinnacle of fine dining at Charlotte & Fritz, where exquisite flavors meet elegant ambiance in Berlin's Mitte district.

Bocca di Bacco

1.2 km

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bocca di Bacco in Berlin – where tradition meets elegance in every dish.

Nante-Eck

1.3 km

Experience authentic German cuisine at Nante-Eck in Berlin’s Mitte district—where tradition meets taste in a cozy atmosphere.

Grill Royal

1.4 km

Experience exceptional steaks and vibrant ambiance at Grill Royal in Berlin’s Mitte district.

Restaurant Maximilians Berlin

1.4 km

Experience authentic Bavarian cuisine at Restaurant Maximilians in Berlin's Mitte district—where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

acht&dreissig

1.4 km

Savor traditional German dishes at acht&dreissig in Berlin, where authentic flavors meet inviting ambiance.

A Mano

1.4 km

Discover A Mano: Berlin's premier destination for authentic Italian cuisine and exquisite seafood dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Redbear Berlin

0.3 km

Explore Redbear Berlin, a stylish boutique offering unique fashion pieces in the vibrant Mitte district, perfect for discerning shoppers.

Shop Passage im Humboldt Forum

0.4 km

Explore a captivating selection of gifts and unique souvenirs at Shop Passage im Humboldt Forum, a must-visit destination in Berlin.

ausberlin

0.5 km

Discover local fashion and unique gifts at ausberlin, a vibrant department store in the heart of Berlin's Mitte district.

BERLIN Store - MUDDASTADT GmbH

0.5 km

Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at MUDDASTADT GmbH in Berlin - where every item tells a story of the city's rich culture and heritage.

I LOVE BERLIN - MUDDASTADT GmbH

0.6 km

Discover the essence of Berlin at I LOVE BERLIN - your one-stop shop for souvenirs and unique gifts in the heart of the city.

ALEXA Berlin

0.6 km

Discover ALEXA Berlin, a premier shopping mall in Mitte featuring diverse shops, dining, and entertainment in a vibrant urban setting.

Elbenwald

0.6 km

Discover Elbenwald in Berlin, a unique gift shop offering a treasure trove of pop culture merchandise, clothing, and toys for all ages.

Hackesche Höfe

0.8 km

Explore Hackesche Höfe, a vibrant shopping and cultural hub in Berlin, featuring unique shops, diverse dining options, and artistic experiences.

Pick'nWeight - Vintage Kilo Store

0.9 km

Explore the vintage fashion paradise of Berlin at Pick'nWeight - Vintage Kilo Store, where unique styles meet sustainable shopping.

THE CODE

0.9 km

Explore the chic and contemporary fashion scene at The Code, a boutique in Berlin's Mitte district, showcasing unique styles and local designers.

AMPELMANN shop in the Hackescher Markt

0.9 km

Explore the charming AMPELMANN shop in Hackescher Markt for unique Berlin souvenirs that capture the city's spirit and culture.

REBECCA Concept Store

1.0 km

Explore the vibrant fashion scene at REBECCA Concept Store in Berlin, where unique style meets contemporary design.

The Square Berlin East

1.0 km

Explore a unique blend of fashion, literature, and home decor at The Square Berlin East, a boutique gem in the heart of Berlin's Mitte district.

The New Black

1.1 km

Explore unique vintage fashion at The New Black in Berlin's Mitte district, where sustainability meets style in an eclectic clothing experience.

Kauf Dich Glücklich Mode

1.1 km

Discover unique fashion at Kauf Dich Glücklich Mode, a stylish clothing store in Berlin's Mitte district, where creativity meets contemporary style.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Knutschfleck Berlin

0.4 km

Discover the energy of Knutschfleck Berlin, where live music, delicious food, and dance come together for an unforgettable night out in the heart of the city.

Berlin Icebar

0.5 km

Discover the magic of Berlin Icebar, where cocktails meet ice sculptures for a unique nightlife experience in the heart of the city.

Bierbar Alkopole

0.5 km

Discover the heart of Berlin's nightlife at Bierbar Alkopole, where a wide selection of beers and a friendly atmosphere await.

TheCoven Bar

0.7 km

Discover the allure of TheCoven Bar, a cocktail haven in the heart of Berlin's Mitte district, where innovative drinks meet enchanting ambiance.

Gittis Bier-Bar

0.9 km

Experience authentic German beer and cuisine at Gittis Bier-Bar in the heart of Berlin's Mitte district.

Volksbar

1.1 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Volksbar, Berlin's eclectic bar and event venue, perfect for socializing and enjoying live entertainment.

Newton Bar

1.2 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Berlin at Newton Bar, where stylish cocktails and a chic atmosphere await in Mitte.

Bar 3

1.2 km

Experience the lively ambiance of Bar 3 in Berlin, a popular spot for locals and tourists to unwind and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

KASCHK by BRLO

1.2 km

Discover KASCHK by BRLO, where Berlin's craft beer meets a vibrant atmosphere and delicious bites in the heart of the city.

My Bar ICI

1.3 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite drink selection at My Bar ICI, a must-visit bar in the heart of Berlin's Mitte district.

Emi Wynehouse Pop-Up Bar

1.3 km

Discover the unique charm of Emi Wynehouse Pop-Up Bar, where eclectic cocktails and vibrant nightlife collide in the heart of Berlin.

meisterschueler

1.4 km

Discover Meisterschueler in Berlin – a captivating cocktail bar that intertwines art and mixology for an unforgettable experience.

Windhorst

1.4 km

Experience Berlin's vibrant nightlife at Windhorst, an upscale cocktail bar serving exquisite drinks in a stylish atmosphere in the heart of Mitte.

X-Terrain

1.4 km

Discover the eclectic vibe of X-Terrain, a unique bar in Berlin's Mitte with creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere perfect for nightlife enthusiasts.

Bar Amélie

1.4 km

Discover Berlin's vibrant cocktail scene at Bar Amélie, where expertly crafted drinks meet a cozy atmosphere in the heart of the city.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Nikolaiviertel with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Nikolaiviertel: Berlin's Medieval Heart

A brief summary to Nikolaiviertel

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Nikolaiviertel

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Nikolaiviertel

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Figur Allegorie der Wissenschaft

Wappenbrunnen

KURFÜRSTENHAUS

Berlin

Schlüterhof

Berliner Fernsehturm

Berlin TV Tower

Schlossviertel

Berlin Cathedral

Herbert-Baum-Denkmal

Rosenstraße

Three Girls One Boy Statue

Three Girls and a Boy

Alte Berliner Stadtmauer

Fischerinsel 3

Unmissable attractions to see

Zur Gerichtslaube

St. Nicholas' Church Museum

Free Berlin Bike Tours & Rental

Museum Knoblauchhaus

Rotes Rathaus

St. George – The Dragonslayer

Ephraim Palace

Molkenmarkt

Rathausbrücke

Marx-Engels-Forum

BowlingCenter am Roten Rathaus

Fonte de Neptuno

Neptune Fountain

Neptunbrunnen

I Love Berlin Bike Tours

Essential places to dine

Mutter Hoppe

Alt-Berliner Gasthaus Julchen Hoppe

Restaurant Balthazar 2

Dreh-Restaurant Sphere im Berliner Fernsehturm

Zur letzten Instanz

Restaurant FOREIGN AFFAIRS

Restaurant Dae Mon

BLESS Restaurant

Charlotte & Fritz

Bocca di Bacco

Nante-Eck

Grill Royal

Restaurant Maximilians Berlin

acht&dreissig

A Mano

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Redbear Berlin

Shop Passage im Humboldt Forum

ausberlin

BERLIN Store - MUDDASTADT GmbH

I LOVE BERLIN - MUDDASTADT GmbH

ALEXA Berlin

Elbenwald

Hackesche Höfe

Pick'nWeight - Vintage Kilo Store

THE CODE

AMPELMANN shop in the Hackescher Markt

REBECCA Concept Store

The Square Berlin East

The New Black

Kauf Dich Glücklich Mode

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Knutschfleck Berlin

Berlin Icebar